2009 Porsche Cayenne Review

For 2009, the Cayenne Turbo S model returns to the lineup, now featuring 550 horsepower. Across the Cayenne line, the optional Porsche Communication Management interface now utilizes a touchscreen and can be equipped with Bluetooth and iPod connectivity. Additionally, the optional navigation system is now hard-drive-based, and satellite radio is newly available. Finally, carbon ceramic brakes become optional on V8-powered models with 20- and 21-inch wheels, and the standard brakes on the Cayenne Turbo have also been enlarged, bringing with them standard 19-inch wheels.

It may spit in the face of Porsche's sports car heritage, but the 2009 Porsche Cayenne is a brilliantly engineered and thoroughly competent SUV for families on the (rapid) move.

When the Porsche Cayenne debuted a few years back, it seemed like sacrilege. A Porsche SUV was as off-putting to car enthusiasts as a Spago hot dog would be to food connoisseurs. Why would this maker of magnificent sports cars stoop so low as to make a truck? The answer is best expressed in dollar signs -- the Cayenne's sales success has netted the company a fortune. However, it's also a vehicle that fully lives up to the Porsche name, even if it doesn't fit the classic mold. The 2009 Porsche Cayenne may be a heavy SUV, but its unexpected levels of acceleration and handling are attributes that even the crankiest enthusiast can appreciate.

The Cayenne received its first major update last year. Exterior styling was only marginally tweaked, but the engine lineup received substantial changes. The base V6 went from a 3.2-liter laughingstock to a 3.6-liter unit better suited to such a large vehicle. The naturally aspirated and turbocharged V8s were also pumped up, and the new GTS trim level was designed to maximize the Cayenne's handling potential. For 2009, the Cayenne gets even spicier, thanks to the return of the granddaddy Turbo S model, now boasting a whopping 550 hp and 553 pound-feet of torque. With an estimated 0-60 time of 4.7 seconds, the Cayenne Turbo S is as quick as a 911 Carrera.

The other big news for 2009 is the updated electronic equipment that's being applied to all of Porsche's models. The clunky number pad and tiny knob that controlled the old stereo and navigation systems are gone, replaced by a touchscreen interface with more user-friendly physical buttons. Bluetooth, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack are also newly available.

Overall, the 2009 Porsche Cayenne is one of a handful of performance-oriented luxury SUVs. The BMW X5 and X6, the Infiniti FX, the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG and the Land Rover Range Rover Sport are all compelling entries, each offering a distinctive take on this peculiar segment. Nonetheless, while the Cayenne can get very expensive if you sample liberally from the options list, we think it's clearly the top choice in this group. Porsche enthusiasts might still roll their eyes at the Cayenne, but if they were ever to find themselves shopping for an SUV, we're sure the Cayenne would be at the top of their list.

All 2009 Porsche Cayennes are equipped with all-wheel drive. The base Cayenne is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 producing 290 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is standard, and a six-speed automatic is optional. According to Porsche, the Cayenne with the automatic goes from zero to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds. The automatic-only Cayenne S gets a 4.8-liter V8 with 385 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. In our testing, a Cayenne S completed the 0-60-mph sprint in 7.1 seconds.

The Cayenne GTS gets the same basic V8 as the S, but it's massaged up to 405 hp and can be had with a six-speed manual as well as the automatic. The latter transmission yielded a 0-60 time of 6.8 seconds at our test track. The Cayenne Turbo gets a twin-turbocharged 4.8-liter V8 with 500 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, while the Cayenne Turbo S squeezes 550 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque from the same engine. Both Turbo models are only available with the automatic. The Turbo's estimated 0-60 time is 5 seconds flat, and the Turbo S should be quicker still. Not bad for a vehicle that tips the scales at more than 5,000 pounds.

Naturally, fuel economy is not a Cayenne strong suit, ranging from 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined for the Cayenne V6 to 11/17/13 for the manual-transmission GTS. If you have enough autobahn, the Turbo S won't quit till it reaches 174 mph -- a number that might stop those enthusiasts' eyes from rolling. Towing capacity for all Cayennes is a robust 7,700 pounds when properly equipped.

Antilock disc brakes are standard on the 2009 Porsche Cayenne, as are front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Stability control is standard as well, and the system now features a rollover sensor. Active bi-xenon headlights and front and rear park assist are standard on the Turbo models and available on all other trims. Ceramic composite brakes are optional on all V8 Cayennes.

In terms of performance and handling, the 2009 Cayenne fully lives up to its Porsche heritage. With its combination of massive heft and remarkable agility, the Cayenne is the automotive version of former NFL defensive tackle Warren Sapp, who somehow managed to foxtrot his enormous frame around the stage on "Dancing with the Stars." The GTS and Turbo models offer particularly sporting drives. Swift acceleration from nearly any speed is always at hand, even with the base V6, while cornering is controlled and confident, especially when the dynamic chassis control option is specified. The ride is firm but never harsh, and the brakes are strong and linear. The Cayenne can also be a capable SUV when it comes to off-road work, but only with the optional off-road package.

With a 911-style instrument cluster and left-side ignition switch, the Cayenne's interior is pure Porsche. For 2009, the Cayenne gets a new touchscreen for navigation, stereo and phone controls. Materials quality is superb -- every major surface feels worthy of a vehicle with such a large price tag, right down to the richly carpeted footwells. As you add things like extended leather and an Alcantara headliner, that quality improves even more. Fit and finish, especially with the optional wood or metallic accent packages, is excellent, and the various front seat designs are all supportive yet comfortable. Rear seat comfort is mediocre, however, and maximum cargo capacity, at 62.5 cubic feet, is on the small side for a midsize luxury SUV.